April Lily Partridge, winner of the 2023 Roux Scholarship, has left Ledbury, London to pursue her ‘next chapter’.
The former sous chef of three Michelin-starred restaurants shared the news on Instagram.
He said: “Ledbury – a huge chapter in my life and career. I’ve grown a lot from the chef and the person who first walked through the door all those years ago and I’m proud to be a small part of the Ledbury story.
“I’ve worked with amazing chefs who have become friends for life, who have learned from my life and left a stronger chef than when I started. Thanks to everyone who helped me along the way, especially to Bretto (Brett Graham), who taught me not only how to cook with heart, but the importance of being a good person, caring about suppliers and going the extra mile with hospitality and being kind even when things are difficult. “
He added: “No one has influenced me more in my career than him and I hope to carry the spirit of Ledbury with me for the rest of my life. From here to the next chapter. It’s been one hell of a ride.”
Partridge has also previously won the Springboard FutureChef competition and received the 2022 Acorn Award.
Throughout his career, Partridge has worked in notable establishments such as The Ivy in London’s West End, The Hand and Flowers in Marlow, Paul Ainsworth No. 6 in Padstow, The Clove Club and Alyn Williams in The Westbury. He joined The Ledbury just before the pandemic broke out in 2020.
In April 2023, Partridge won the prestigious Roux Scholarship at her first attempt, becoming only the second female chef to achieve this honor in the competition’s history.
Partridge also contributed to Ledbury’s success, achieving three Michelin stars earlier this year as part of the team.
